By PAUL MILLAR
WARY councillors will defy in-house recommendations if they agree to splurge $6 million on further upgrades to Simonds Stadium.
Another major sticking point in any loosening of council purse strings is the revelation that a State Government-appointed trust taking over management of the stadium comes with a $1.5 million annual price tag attached.
Councillors are divided over the Cats’ demand for $6 million, with many ratepayers believing the money could be better-spent elsewhere and others arguing the city needs a world-class stadium to attract visitors.
Sources told the Independent that City Hall officers had prepared a report advising councillors against providing the money.
Councillor Eddy Kontelj, who holds council’s finance portfoliol, admitted to “nervousness” about committing such a large sum.
The ongoing surcharge of $1.5 million a year for the trust also troubled him.
“The State Government is installing a trust to take over the ownership and running of the stadium and I don’t believe that the residents of Geelong should be contributing to the ongoing operating costs.
“I just don’t think they should be paying $1.5 million annually,” Cr Kontelj said.
“There is some reservation and division on the funding at this point in time. There’s nervousness because of the composition of the trust not being finalised and there are questions surrounding the upkeep and operating costs.
“It’s not up to us contribute when we’re not aware of all the intricacies.
“However, I don’t think there should be a delay in making a decision. We need to give Geelong Football Club direction about the funding for the stadium.
“Council appreciates that this is a world-class facility, it attracts tourism, it’s an economic driver and attracts social engagement and supports the biggest game in the country and as such I support council engaging in funding for the next development.”
Councillors were considering a variety of options to provide the funding, Cr Kontelj said.
The club wants the money for an $89 million stage-four redevelopment of the stadium. The Andrews Government has pledged $70 million, its predecessor committed $5 million and the AFL has committed $5 million.
Councillors are likely to vote on the funding next week.
